Poet: Ayadakki Marayya

Translator: S.S. Bhoosnurmath and Armando Menezes

Source: Sunya Sampadane Volume 4, Karnataka University, Dharwad

Performed by M. D. Pallavi and Bruce Lee Mani

For Bhakti Republic with Amit Basole

Radio Azim Premji University, 2023

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One who's engaged in work

Must even forget the Guru's sight ;

The Linga-worship he must forget ...

Even if the Jangama stand in front,

The obligation must be snapped.

Since such work is as good as Heaven,

Amaresvaralinga Himself

Must do it.

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Ayadakki Marayya, a contemporary of Basavanna, had the humble responsibility of gathering spilled rice outside Basavanna's house. Legend holds that Marayya and his wife, Mahadeviyamma, a Dalit couple from Maharashtra, arrived in medieval Karnataka, influenced by Basavanna's teachings. The stories chronicled in the Sunya Sampadane emphasize the deep spiritual bond between Marayya and Mahadeviyamma, a recurring theme in this tradition. Research has uncovered 809 Vachanas authored by Marayya and 69 Vachanas by Mahadeviyamma. Revered among devotees dedicated to Kayaka (service) and Daasoha (charity), Marayya epitomized the belief that work is akin to heaven. Writing under the signature Amareshwaralinga, his 32 vachanas delve into the philosophy of Kayaka, underscoring the importance of dedicated service in his life's principles.